Trial takes active approach to good health

It is hoped a trial program being run in Sarina will help reduce demand on the health system.

The three-year Sarina Wellness program is being run by Queensland Health and Mackay Regional Council and is aiming to improve physical and mental health through activity.

Health promotion offer Rhiannon Dooley says Sarina was chosen because it still has a rural aspect to it.

She says she would like to see more people getting physically active in groups.

"One of the greatest benefits about being physically active in a group setting is that social interaction with other people in the community," she said.

"Another area is just increasing people's access to the facilities that already exist in the community, so whether that's having events or activities at the local library or just having outdoor spaces for people to go and sit down and have a chat to the neighbour or a friend."